To gesso or not to gesso...that is the question!

 Gesso resist papers tutorial

Dear Cyndi...........In my searching I found you and have a question for you..... Is it recommended that you gesso a Canvas and Canvas Boards before you begin working on them. In all my searching some say to treat some do not even say at all. My concern is the Canvas sides - when I need to finish them off -if I'm not going to scarpbook technique them but color with either by paint/ink/marker. Whatever I do, I want a professional product to last and not fall apart after it has been sold. Whatever information you can share with me will be greatly appreciated..........Thank you........... Carol


Hi Carol,
Gesso serves four different purposes: to give "tooth" to surfaces that don't have enough, to prevent "thirsty" surfaces from sucking up too much of your more expensive paints, to create a smoother surface to work on, and to cover over prior mistakes. Five purposes: to add a certain amount of texture. There! I think that's basically it. So I don't think you have to worry about your pieces falling apart if you choose not to use gesso on canvas. Most canvas doesn't really need it unless it isn't as smooth as you'd like, but it is a thirsty material, so it's often worth taking the extra step. Love to see what you make! Best ~ Cyndi

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